well in advance — a long time before something happens or is needed

a wedding planner sits at a table covered with completed arrangements, crossing items off her detailed checklist with satisfaction. Her assistant places the final decorative flowers into perfectly organized storage boxes. The early preparation means everything is ready with weeks to spare before the actual wedding date. Other staff members in the background smile approvingly as they see the impressive organization. Multiple completed tasks are visible around the room, from wrapped centerpieces to sorted table linens. tasks being completed a long time before something happens or is needed